Are You “Overbrushing” Your Teeth Without Even Knowing It?
If so, you could be doing more harm than good.
Think about your teeth brushing technique. Would you say that you’re more of a teeth scrubber than a teeth brusher? Do you tend to brush more aggressively than gently?
There’s actually a good chance that you do, without even being aware of it! And if you do, this is something you’re going to want to change - and we’ll discuss those reasons below.
While it may seem like a good hard scrubbing is the best way to get those teeth as clean as possible, this is actually not the case at all - and gentle brushing gets the job done just fine. With that said, here are the top 3 problems associated with aggressive or harsh teeth brushing:
Here are our top 3 reasons as to why you should brush your teeth with the TLC they deserve:
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You could be causing irreversible damage or wear to your tooth enamel.
A forceful tooth brushing technique has been proven to cause damage - especially over time. Brushing too aggressively is known to wear away at the precious tooth enamel (surface layer), which is something we need to preserve as well as we can for life as it cannot grow back on its own! Enamel wear often leads to an increase in tooth sensitivity, as well as discolouration or yellowing of the teeth - and not to mention, puts you at a greater risk for cavities -
You’re likely contributing to gum recession.
Forceful brushing is a really easy way to cause gum recession. The gums are rather sensitive tissues prone to pulling back from the teeth over time, especially when the gums aren’t properly cared for with daily flossing - but a long-term harsh cleaning technique is a surefire way to damage the gums (and like with enamel, there is no way to grow gum tissue back).
Gum recession is both an unhealthy and unattractive oral condition - but there are fortunately ways to effectively prevent and even treat the problem. Our Milton dentist agrees that the best thing you can do to prevent recession is to brush gently twice daily, floss once daily, and see your dentist and hygienist regularly. -
Your toothbrush is going to need a replacement more regularly.
If you’re regularly brushing too hard, your toothbrush bristles are going to wear at a much faster rate - deeming them unfit for an effective clean. Who wants to have to replace their toothbrush more often than they need to? Brushing gently will not only give you just as effective of a cleaning, but will preserve your toothbrush bristles for longer. Win-win!
The next time you brush your teeth, pay attention to the level of pressure you’re exerting onto your teeth and gums.
You should always be brushing gently, and ideally with a soft bristled toothbrush, even if it may not feel like you’re getting as thorough of a clean.
Are your teeth due for a check-up and cleaning by our professionals?
Aside from brushing gently twice daily, it’s also critical to maintain a clean and healthy smile by visiting the dentist and hygienist every 6 or so months.
How long has it been since your last cleaning and check-up? If it’s time for another visit, our friendly Milton dentist and hygienist would be happy to see you! Call us today to book an appointment at Southview Dental.
